"Koscielny is a central defender with great ability who performed extremely well last season for Lorient.. We identified him as a very strong centre half, who has made big progress very quickly.. He has shown he is mentally strong, he's a fighter and a very strong competitor.. Koscielny is a great addition to our squad.."

"I'm very excited to be joining Arsenal.. They are one of the biggest teams in Europe with many great players.. I'm really looking forward to playing in the English Premier League and the Champions League with my new club.. Also, in Arsène Wenger, Arsenal has one of the best managers in the world and I can't wait to work with him and do my best for the Arsenal supporters.."